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Microstate
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Richard York
Wittenberg University, Springfield, OH 45501 |
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This program is out of print, but is available for free download by Journal of Chemical Education subscribers. |
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Microstate allows experimentation with a simulated crystal that is viewed as a set of loosely coupled harmonic oscillators. Energy is exchanged randomly among pairs of oscillators and the computer tallies energy states and displays a bar graph showing average occupancies of the first fifteen energy levels. This graphically demonstrates the development of the Boltzmann distribution of energies as the equilibrium state of an unconstrained system. Microstate does not use Boltzmann's theory to calculate occupancies, but rather tallies the distribution as random energy exchanges take place. It is also possible to compare two systems, stopping either at any time and allowing the other to continue to advance toward equilibrium. Two systems at equilibrium, for example a hot one and a cold one, can be merged and the redistribution of energy within the new combined system observed. Normally energy is exchanged completely randomly, but it is possible to impose constraints, such as exchange only between neighbors. The program provides a variety of ways to demonstrate that although the individual, microscopic components of the system are behaving randomly, the macroscopic system itself can exhibit orderly and predictable behavior. Hardware and Software Requirements Microstate requires a MS-DOS/IBM compatible computer with 512K of RAM and CGA or better graphics. |
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Last Updated: April 26, 2001 Created: December 4, 1996 |
Created by: J. L. Holmes Comments to: jceonline@chem.wisc.edu |
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| © 1997 Division of Chemical Education, Inc., American Chemical Society. All rights reserved. | |